Senior Judge Kevin A. Hess' ruling takes all of the charges that relate directly to Reed's actions as mayor off the table.

Hess refused, however, to dismiss another 144 charges, most involving accusations that Reed, 66, stole historical artifacts that were purchased by the city.

The state attorney general's office could appeal Hess' ruling to the state Superior Court.

Henry Hockeimer Jr., one of Reed's attorneys, praised the judge's decision. "We are pleased with the ruling," Hockeimer said. "This was an ill-conceived prosecution from the start and we look forward to vigorously contesting the remaining charges at trial."